to subtly provoke or annoy someone · to tease repeatedly in an irritating way
This expression describes when someone playfully, or sometimes not so playfully, bothers another person with repetitive comments, questions, or teasing. 😒 It's like poking someone with a stick, but with words! It's often used when someone keeps bringing up an embarrassing moment or a sensitive topic.
💡 **Remember!** While 'to needle someone' can sometimes be playful among close friends, it can also be genuinely annoying if overdone or used maliciously. Use it with caution and read the room! 🧐 It suggests a persistent, often subtle, form of irritation.
When is the most appropriate time to use 'to needle someone'? A. To praise someone for their achievements. B. To gently annoy someone with repeated jokes or questions. C. To calm someone down who is angry.